Rules for Audience Members
When we go to concerts or performances, we may go for many reasons, but the most important reason is to watch and listen to the performers. The performers are not on television. They are alive; they can see and hear the audience; they want to be able to do a great job for you.
Good concert etiquette helps the audience have a good experience. What some audience members fail to realize is that they also help the performers perform better. With no visual or auditory distractions, performers can concentrate on giving a great performance. They are trying their best to present an enjoyable musical or dance experience for everyone.
To help the student performers do their best:
*Remove noisy children from the auditorium and do not let them roam around the audience area. Make arrangements for children under 4 years old who are unable to remain quiet and still during the performance - this interferes with everyone's enjoyment. Set a good example for the younger audience members.
*Student performers cannot "baby-sit" siblings while being on stage and part of a program. Do not send unaccompanied minors to the school.
*Don’t wander around in the auditorium, especially while the performers are performing.
*Arrive on time. Stay until the end of the performance. Don’t leave early to beat the rush.
*If you video, stand in the back to be sure you're not blocking someone else's view.
*Limit flash photography to just before or after a selection, or stay afterward to get a good pose on stage.
*Use the restroom before the concert or during the intermission, and exit through the back door if you must leave the performance.
*Turn off all your noise making gadgets, like watches, cell phones, and pagers.
*Open up cough drops and candies before the performance begins.
*Clap enthusiastically to show your appreciation but don’t “whoop and holler”.
If everyone follows these ideas, we can all have a positive experience at concerts. The basic rule is this: Don’t do anything that makes people notice you instead of the performance. Be courteous. Use good judgment.